Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Benjamin Alire Sáenz is an American poet, novelist, and writer of children's books. He is known for his works that explore themes of identity, family, and culture, particularly within the Mexican-American community. Sáenz has received numerous awards for his writing, including the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction and the Stonewall Book Award.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe

    In this coming-of-age novel, two Mexican-American teenagers, Aristotle and Dante, form an unlikely friendship during the summer of 1987. As they navigate their way through adolescence, they uncover the complexities of their identities, family dynamics, and the world around them. Through their shared experiences, they discover the power of love, self-acceptance, and the profound mysteries that the universe holds.

    The 4144th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Sammy And Juliana In Hollywood

    Set against the backdrop of a small town in New Mexico during the turbulent 1960s, this poignant coming-of-age story follows a young Chicano teenager as he navigates the complexities of adolescence, love, and loss. The protagonist grapples with the harsh realities of racism, poverty, and the Vietnam War, all while cherishing the deep bonds of friendship and family. Through his eyes, readers witness the struggles and triumphs of a community striving for identity and hope in a rapidly changing world.

    The 13566th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Everything Begins and Ends at the Kentucky Club

    "Everything Begins and Ends at the Kentucky Club" is a collection of seven short stories, all of which are connected by the Kentucky Club, a bar in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. The stories explore various themes such as love, loss, addiction, and identity, and feature a range of characters, from a young man coming to terms with his sexuality to an older man reflecting on his past relationships. The author uses the backdrop of the U.S.-Mexico border to highlight the complexities and struggles of the characters' lives.

    The 17117th Greatest Book of All Time
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